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What Buyers Should Know About the NAR Settlement

06/8/24  |  Stephanie Nash

A Comprehensive Overview of the Recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) Settlement and Its Impact on Home Buyers.


The real estate industry has witnessed a pivotal change with the recent settlement involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This settlement, resulting from a class-action lawsuit alleging anti-competitive practices in the way listing brokers compensate buyer brokers, promises to reshape many aspects of buying and selling homes. It’s important for buyers to look at the settlement details, its implications for home buyers, and strategic advice for navigating this new terrain.

Unpacking the NAR Settlement


The roots of the lawsuit extend to concerns over how the traditional real estate market operates, particularly around the transparency and fairness of broker commissions. Historically, the seller pays the commission of both the listing and buyer brokers, embedding these costs into the home's sale price. The lawsuit argued that this practice was anti-competitive by nature, often leading to inflated costs and less clarity for the buyer.

Key Provisions of the Settlement

Transparency in Brokerage Fees


A cornerstone of the settlement is the enhancement of transparency concerning brokerage fees. Under the new guidelines, listing brokers are required to disclose the amount of compensation offered to buyer brokers. This change aims to provide buyers and sellers with a clearer understanding of how much is being paid in commissions and to whom.

Direct Negotiation of Buyer Broker Commissions


The settlement also introduces the potential for buyers to negotiate their broker's commission directly. This represents a significant shift from the standard practice where such negotiations were generally not part of the buyer’s direct responsibilities. By empowering buyers to negotiate these fees, the settlement could drive more competitive pricing and services in the brokerage industry.

Implications for Home Buyers

Enhanced Buyer Empowerment


The settlement fosters a new level of empowerment for buyers, who can now have direct insight into and influence over the commissions paid to their brokers. This transparency is expected to encourage more competitive fee structures and more personalized broker services.

Potential Reduction in Overall Home Buying Costs


With the ability to negotiate broker fees directly, buyers might see a reduction in the overall costs associated with purchasing a home. This could make home ownership more accessible, particularly for first-time buyers and those in competitive markets.

Navigating the New Real Estate Landscape

Educating Yourself on Fee Structures


In the wake of the NAR settlement, it is crucial for buyers to educate themselves about the different brokerage fee structures available. Understanding these structures allows buyers to make informed decisions when negotiating terms with their brokers. Buyers should familiarize themselves with standard commission rates, flat fee options, and other compensation models to discuss these options knowledgeably with their agents.

Developing Negotiation Skills


With the new ability to negotiate commission rates directly, buyers should aim to hone their negotiation skills. This includes understanding the market value of real estate services, comparing different brokers' offerings, and effectively communicating one's needs and expectations. Engaging in negotiations equipped with market knowledge and clear objectives can significantly enhance the terms of service buyers receive.

Utilizing Professional Advice


Navigating the reformed real estate landscape can be complex, especially with nuanced changes in broker compensation practices. Buyers are advised to consult with experienced real estate professionals, including attorneys and financial advisors, who can provide insights into how the settlement might affect their specific situations. These professionals can offer strategic advice tailored to ensure buyers maximize their benefits under the new rules.

Monitoring Market Reactions


As the industry adjusts to the NAR settlement, monitoring market reactions can provide buyers with critical insights into how these changes are influencing the real estate market. Staying informed about trends in broker fees, service offerings, and buyer satisfaction will allow buyers to adjust their strategies accordingly, ensuring they remain competitive and well-informed in their real estate endeavors.

Embracing Change in Real Estate Transactions


The NAR settlement represents a significant transformation in how real estate transactions are conducted. It offers an opportunity for buyers to take a more active role in the negotiation process, potentially leading to substantial benefits, including cost savings and more tailored services.

Begin Your Real Estate Journey with Stephanie Nash


Navigating the complexities of the real estate market requires expert guidance, especially with recent changes. Stephanie Nash provides professional insight and personalized service to help you make informed decisions in this new era. Contact Stephanie Nash today to explore your real estate opportunities with confidence.

*Header image courtesy of Stephanie Nash



Stephanie Nash

Stephanie Nash

About The Author

For more than three decades, Stephanie Nash has been one of the Peninsula’s most trusted and proven real estate advisors, serving Woodside, Portola Valley, Atherton, Redwood City, Emerald Hills, San Carlos, Half Moon Bay, and the surrounding communities from Burlingame to Los Gatos.

Born and raised on the Peninsula, Stephanie brings true insider knowledge of the region; its micro-neighborhoods, school corridors, country-property enclaves, and the lifestyle features that make this area so coveted: sunny weather, an easygoing spirit, hiking trails, large-parcel retreats, ocean-view hillsides, and world-class food and culture.

A career built on experience, ethics, and results

Stephanie began her real estate career in 1987 working in local title companies before becoming the assistant to a top-producing agent. She earned her real estate license in 1991, and since then has built a reputation as a solutions-driven, ethical, and steady negotiator who guides clients through every complexity of a California transaction.

Her track record includes everything from luxury estates to rural acreage to trust and estate sales, including the successful sale of a 500-acre property, a transaction requiring extensive due diligence, jurisdictional navigation, and long-term strategy.

Nationally recognized performance

Stephanie has been recognized multiple times by RealTrends as one of the “Best Agents in America,” most recently in 2024; an honor reserved for the top tier of agents nationwide based on verified production.

Expert Witness in Real Estate Matters

In addition to client representation, Stephanie now serves as a retained Expert Witness in California real estate cases—including valuation disputes, fiduciary sales, marketing standards, agent performance, disclosure practices, and industry-standard care.

What clients rely on her for

Whether you are buying, selling, downsizing, expanding, or handling a trust/estate sale, Stephanie offers:

  • Deep regional expertise across multiple Peninsula micro-markets

  • Strong negotiation skills grounded in fairness, strategy, and consistent communication

  • Experience in complex transactions (trusts, estates, multiple-heir negotiations, title defects, rural land issues)

  • Compassionate guidance rooted in decades of hands-on client service

  • Unmatched availability and responsiveness

Clients praise her listening skills, honesty, and ability to navigate even the most emotional or complicated sale with clarity and professionalism.

A life built around community and care

Stephanie is deeply grateful for her family, her life on the Peninsula, and the meaningful relationships formed through her work. 

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Work With Stephanie

Stephanie respects residential real estateā€™s dual role as a personal investment and chief financial one. Whether you are buying or selling a home, it will likely be one of the largest financial decisions you make. Stephanie will be with you every step of the way to expertly guide you.

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2930 Woodside Road
Woodside, CA 94062

CA DRE# 01104524

Stephanie Nash

(650) 995-3820

[email protected]

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